Myanmar (Burma) tours & travel

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At a difficult period in the nation’s history, Myanmar reveals just why grassroots travel is so important.

Despite recent unrest, Myanmar’s stunning gold pagodas, ancient towns and forested landscapes are still worthy of your attention. We believe there has never been a more important time to be fostering real exchanges between travellers and locals, whether that’s visiting a family-run workshop in Bagan, learning from a community project in Pakkoku, or simply mingling with villagers in Kalaw. Come and see why, even when the country’s reputation might have chilled, Myanmar still has the ability to stir.

Best time to visit Myanmar

Best time to visit Myanmar

Myanmar has three distinct seasons, with the hottest and driest running from February to May. During this time, temperatures can reach up to 40 degrees celsius, although relief can be found in the highland areas which, on average, clock cooler temperatures. The monsoon season runs from May to October, while milder and drier weather usually prevails from October to February.

Culture and customs

Culture and customs

With 135 distinct ethnic groups calling Myanmar home (though many still refer to it as Burma), this historically volatile nation comprises a patchwork of customs, traditions and languages. Ethnic groups fall under Bamar, Shan, Mon, Kayin, Kayan, Chin, Kachin and Rakhine.

The majority of people in Myanmar are Buddhist, which has a unifying effect on this diverse country as religion plays an important role in daily life. Buddhist men are expected to take the robe twice in their life, monks are revered and the dress is expected to be modest. Shorts, if worn, should reach the knee and shoulders should be covered. Though Millennials are starting to challenge this standard of dress, everyone still covers up when visiting religious sites. The rest of the population is Hindu, Muslim, Christian or animist.

Regardless of religion, many Burmese mixes their religious beliefs with nat (spirit) worship and are deeply superstitious. Most villages have a nat sin, or shrine, to honour the village’s guardian nat, and you’ll likely see car mirrors adorned with red and white cloths, which are believed to offer nat protection. Astrology is commonly used to find a partner and choose important dates, like weddings, funerals and celebratory events.

About three-quarters of the population live in the country, where poverty is still common and labour is arduous. Families are large and tend to live in thatched huts that lack running water and electricity. Despite these hardships, many country-dwelling Burmese are hospitable, content and quick to call new friends ‘brother’ and ‘sister’.

Food and Drink

Food and Drink

Burmese cuisine shares many similarities with neighbouring southeast Asian countries. Like in Thailand, India and China, rice is the cornerstone of most meals and curries are common, though typically more oily and less spicy. Burmese food generally features more sesame, nuts and beans in the north, and fish paste and sour flavours in the south. Pickled vegetables, bamboo shoots and tea leaves feature prominently in Burmese dishes, as well as fish and seafood from the country’s numerous lakes and extensive coastline.

Historically, the people of Myanmar are not big drinkers and, although this is changing, teahouses are still the go-to place for social gatherings. Recognizable by their small plastic tables and stools that spill onto the street, in addition to tea (which is strong and served with a dollop of condensed milk), many teahouses also offer noodles, snacks and sweets.

Those wanting a stiff drink can visit a beer station at an open-air barbeque restaurant found in Myanmar’s larger cities. Indian restaurants serving all-you-can-eat vegetarian thali (a selection of Indian dishes served in small bowls, along with roti, rice, chutney and dessert) are also common in large cities, like Yangon and Mandalay, whereas Chinese restaurants can be found throughout the country.

Things to try in Myanmar

1. Laphet (tea leaf salad)

In Myanmar, tea is not just for drinking. Fermented green tea leaves are mixed with sesame seeds, fried peas, fried garlic and peanuts to make this sour snack. Some variations have shredded cabbage and sliced tomato as well.

2. Mohinga

A fish soup made with vermicelli noodle. Find this popular breakfast choice at teahouses or street vendors in Yangon.

3. Burmese curry

Milder and oilier than those found in other countries, Myanmar’s version of curry is typically centred on pork, fish, beef or mutton. For the proper experience, order this at a traditional Myanmar restaurant to receive a wide array of side dishes (such as rice, salad, fried and parboiled vegetables, soup and spices) along with your curry.

Geography and environment

Geography and environment

Wedged between India and China, this southeast Asian nation also shares its border with Laos, Thailand, and Bangladesh and juts out into the Andaman Sea and Bay of Bengal to the south. Mountain ranges can be found to the extreme north, west and east in a horseshoe shape. Rivers run from north to south, ending at coastal plains. The Shan Plateau, characterised by numerous lakes and canyons, covers the eastern portion of Myanmar, and is where intensive irrigated farming is practiced. Fruit, vegetables and citrus crops thrive in this region, whereas rice paddies are extensive in the south. Much of Myanmar used to be covered in subtropical rainforests, but unfortunately less than half of the country is still forested due to logging.

History and government

History and government

Early History

It has been estimated that the land now known as Myanmar has been inhabited since 11,000 BC. Archaeological evidence garnered from burial sites indicates early settlements were largely concentrated near the Ayeyarwaddy River, with agriculture and animal husbandry prevailing by 1500 BC. Later, larger settlements or city states were created by the peaceful Pyu people, who migrated from the north sometime around 1 BC, bringing Buddhism to Myanmar. With the Mon people entering from the south during the 6th century, and sustained attacks from the north occurring up to the 9th century, the Pyu people became absorbed into the general population to shape the face of future Burmese ethnicity. The Bagan Empire ruled Myanmar from 1044 to 1287 and with a burgeoning agriculture and trade economy, was able to build thousands of Buddhist temples, many of which are still present today. By the 13th century, the Bagan Empire had begun to decline due to economic mismanagement and foreign invasion from the Mongols and the Mon people. Myanmar's seesawing fortunes continued for centuries, with war, invasion and changes in rule commonplace over the years.

Recent History

By 1886, Britain claimed Myanmar (formerly Burma) as a province of India, with Rangoon (now Yangon) being named capital. This period of British rule impacted on Burmese society greatly, with the culture, religion, economy and society vastly changing at the hands of the British. The local population saw little of the economic benefits flowing from increased trade and agriculture cultivation, and with many villages being destroyed, this period of history marks a difficult time for the Burmese. World War II saw Burma's movements towards independence grow, and by 1948 Burma was granted independence. Decades of change and political instability followed, with an unstable parliament and several military coups creating uncertainty around the newly Socialist country. Burma seemingly lurched from crisis to crisis, plagued by corruption, inflation and volatility from the 1960s to 1990s. With increasing trade embargoes, protests, sanctions and international pressure, the military government was forced to cease the imprisonment of democratically elected Aung San Suu Kyi and instate democracy to the country once again.

Top 5 Temples of Myanmar

Top 5 Temples of Myanmar

1. Shwedagon Paya

As one of the most sacred sites in Myanmar, this glittering pagoda located in Yangon is a must-see for travellers wishing to learn about the Buddhist faith and culture in Myanmar. The bell-shaped golden stupa is stunning, while the surrounding statues and satellite shrines provide insight into Burmese culture and mysticism.

2. Dhammayangyi

The largest temple in the impressive Bagan complex, centuries-old Dhammayangyi, features elaborate brickwork, dark passages filled with shrines and serene figures of Buddha. With its construction shrouded in historical mystery, the identity of the architect/builder of this unfinished temple is still unknown.

3. Shwezigon

One of Bagan's most popular pilgrimage spots, Shwezigon is a significant place of worship for many Burmese people. With elaborate, gilded stupas, decorated staircases and golden, ornamental trees, this is one of Myanmar’s most beautiful temples.

4. Mahamuni

Grand columns, bright frescoes, peaceful pavilions, reflective pools and a massive golden Buddha statue combine to make this one of Myanmar’s most visually appealing and interesting spiritual sites. As an active monastery, school for monks and place of worship, expect Bagan's Mahamuni to be busy with daily rituals and yearly religious festivals.

5. Ananda

While not the largest or most elaborate temple, Bagan's symmetrical Ananda rises majestically into the sky with a certain sense of grace. Damaged by an earthquake in the 1970s, Ananda has been lovingly restored to former glory and continues to elicit admiration and wonder from both locals and visitors.

Health and Safety

Health and Safety

Intrepid takes the health and safety of its travellers seriously, and takes every measure to ensure that trips are safe, fun and enjoyable for everyone. We recommend that all travellers check with their government or national travel advisory organisation for the latest information before departure:

Festivals and Events

Festivals and Events

Thingyan (Water Festival): For three or four days each April, Myanmar rings in the Burmese New Year by washing away the old year with a water fight of epic proportions. Join in the fun as people across the country use whatever means they have – water gun, bucket, hose, whatever – to douse each other. Come evening, the drenching is replaced with feasting and partying.

Independence Day: The end of British colonial rule is celebrated each January 4th with nationwide fairs, such as the week-long fair at Kandawgyi Lake in Yagon, and sporting competitions.

Thadingyut (Festival of Lights): As Buddhist Lent comes to an end, people across Myanmar commemorate Buddha’s return from heaven to earth with a dazzling three-day treat for the senses. Towns are transformed as homes and pagodas light up with colourful lanterns and candles. The aroma of fried snacks fills the air as fairs featuring street food and games take over the streets. Fireworks also light up the night sky.

Bagan Ananda Temple Festival: Almost every Buddhist temple throws its own annual festival, but the one thrown by the Ananda temple is particularly large. Part thriving bazaar, part religious ceremony, this two-week event held each December or January includes street food, market stalls, festival games and comedy routines, along with the occasional religious sermon.

Shopping

Shopping

Though shopping opportunities aren’t as numerous in Myanmar as they are in nearby countries, most towns have at least one market at its centre. Regional specialities to look out for at markets include lacquerware from Bagan, tapestries and puppets from Mandalay and painted parasols from Pathein.

If you are looking to take home a piece of Myanmar, consider purchasing one of these regional specialties – this supports both the tradition and low-income artisans. Keep in mind that bargaining is the norm at markets and cash is the usual form of payment.

Like most countries, shopping opportunities are more numerous in larger cities. Find a glitzy six-story shopping centre called Diamond Plaza alongside gold-leaf workshops and stores selling traditional handicrafts in Mandalay, Myanmar’s cultural capital. Visit the Bogyoke Aung San Market in Yangon for a large selection of luxury items, handicrafts, gourmet goods, clothing and jewellery.

Myanmar is renowned for its jade production, but a keen eye is needed in order to avoid getting ripped off. You also need an official certificate when passing customs, so it’s safest to buy these at more established stores to get a receipt.

Myanmar (Burma) travel FAQs

Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveller. Entry requirements can change at any time, so it's important that you check for the latest information. Please visit the relevant consular website of the country or countries you’re visiting for detailed and up-to-date visa information specific to your nationality. Check the Essential Trip Information section of the itinerary for more information.

We understand there has been a lot of discussion about boycotting travel to Myanmar in light of recent events, but we believe there’s a good deal to be said about continuing to operate our trips in Myanmar.

While the intention behind a boycott is to do the right thing, the reality is boycotts often impact the wrong people. Diminishing tourism impacts not just the government or military’s bottom line, but also tightens the belts of local families who rely on travellers to purchase their goods.

Travel boycotts also tend to isolate vulnerable people even more and reinforce binary world views. At Intrepid, we believe travel has the ability to be a force of good. To connect people and begin a dialogue between cultures that can propel change. This is especially so in places where censorship restricts the free flow of ideas in the media, resulting in an echo chamber that only an outsider can break.

We respect the decision to travel or not travel to a country is an individual choice, but we choose to believe in the positive impact that tourism can continue to have in countries like Myanmar.

Resuming trips in Myanmar isn't a decision Intrepid has made lightly. In 2003, we responded to the call for a boycott on travel to Burma by the then democratically elected leader Aung San Suu Kyi, whose National League for Democracy (NLD) party was denied the right to govern the country by the military dictatorship.

After recent positive events within the country including the elections in November 2010, the release of Aung San Suu Kyi from house arrest and the subsequent call to end the travel boycott by the NLD, Intrepid has been prompted to consider returning to Myanmar (Burma).

By reintroducing our grassroots style of travel, we can contribute to improving the circumstances of the Burmese people by way of initiating a two-way exchange. Firstly, resuming trips will give them a chance to interact with visitors from other countries, thus giving a rare glimpse into life and governance in other parts of the world.

Secondly, taking passengers to Myanmar will help to build awareness of the complex issues this country continues to face, as well as positively contributing to the economy.

Squat toilets are most common in Myanmar, although Western-style flushable toilets can be found in larger hotels and some tourist areas. Always carry your own toilet paper and hand sanitizer, as they are usually not provided.

Drinking tap water isn’t recommended in Myanmar. Remember to avoid drinks with ice and peel fruit before eating it. Help the environment and try to avoid buying bottled water. Instead, fill a reusable water bottle with filtered water. Your leader or hotel can tell you where to find filtered water.

ATMs are widely available in larger cities, though they can be unreliable. It is not uncommon for ATMs to run out of funds or not work due to power cuts. You may need to try several ATMs before having success withdrawing funds.

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of your trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

No vaccines are required in order to enter Myanmar but some are recommended for protection against disease. Visit your doctor or travel clinic for advice and make sure to schedule vaccinations 4-6 weeks before your departure date, as some require time to become effective.

Discretion is advised for LGBTQI-travellers visiting Myanmar. Though most local are tolerant, homosexuality is a cultural taboo and gay and transgendered people are rarely out. Public displays of affection are frowned upon, regardless of sexual orientation. Travellers should be aware that, although it is almost never enforced, same-sex intercourse is legally punishable with up to 10 years in prison in Myanmar.

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting Equaldex or ILGA before you travel.

Responsible Travel

Intrepid is committed to travelling in a way that is respectful of local people, their culture, local economies and the environment. It's important to remember that what may be acceptable behaviour, dress and language in your own country, may not be appropriate in another. Please keep this in mind while travelling.

How we're giving back

The Intrepid Foundation provides travellers with an opportunity to give something back to the many wonderful communities we travel to. Action Aid Myanmar has established women-led “revolving loan funds” allowing villagers to take out low-interest loans and develop or set up their small business. The loan empowers families to have ownership over their own finances and the chance to build a better future.